The African Union has formally congratulated Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election as Tanzania’s president, while issuing a sober call for peace and the protection of citizens’ rights following deadly post-election violence.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, said he “takes note of the results of the presidential election in Tanzania and congratulates H.E. President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her victory.”
The diplomatic acknowledgement comes amid a tense political climate in the East African nation. The electoral commission declared President Samia the winner of the 27 October poll, which she contested for the first time as the incumbent after assuming the presidency in 2021 following the death of John Magufuli.
However, the statement from the continental body was not solely celebratory. It carried a significant note of concern, directly addressing the unrest that has marred the election’s aftermath. “The Chairperson deeply regrets the loss of human life during the post-electoral protests and extends his sincere condolences to the families of the victims,” the AU said.
This follows reports from human rights groups and local media that dozens of people have been killed in recent days as security forces clashed with opposition supporters. The main opposition party, CHADEMA, has rejected the election results, alleging widespread fraud and electoral irregularities, and its supporters have taken to the streets in protest.
In his response, the AU Chairperson underscored “the imperative of upholding fundamental rights and freedoms, including the right to peaceful assembly and expression.” He explicitly encouraged the Tanzanian authorities “to safeguard these rights within the framework of the law.”
Simultaneously, he called on citizens “to exercise their rights in a peaceful and responsible manner,” appealing for calm from all sides. The statement recalled the principles of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, emphasising “respect for the rule of law, human rights, fundamental freedoms, and political pluralism,” which it described as the “cornerstones of democratic and stable societies.”
The AU’s carefully worded message highlights the delicate balance the body is attempting to strike. It acknowledges the official electoral outcome and engages with the government, while also applying diplomatic pressure to condemn violence and uphold democratic standards.
The election was seen as a crucial test for Tanzania’s democracy. President Samia had been praised internationally for reversing some of the more repressive policies of her predecessor and opening up political space. However, the opposition’s claims of a stolen election and the state’s forceful response to protests have raised fresh concerns about the country’s democratic trajectory.
The African Union concluded its statement by reaffirming its “readiness to support the people and Government of Tanzania in their efforts to preserve peace, national cohesion, and democracy.” The offer of support signals the AU’s hope to see a peaceful resolution to the current crisis and a return to stability in one of East Africa’s most influential nations.
Discussion about this post